Scolari ready for battle

Blues boss expects Premier League glory

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 29th July 2008

Scolari ready for battle

Scolari: In confident mood

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Luiz Felipe Scolari believes Chelsea have enough quality to mount a sustained title challenge next season.

The Blues boss has seen questions raised about the ability of his aging squad to cope with the rigours of competing at home and abroad.

However, having run the rule over those available to him during the club's recent Asian tour, Scolari is adamant that his side have the ability to snatch the top flight crown away from Manchester United.

The Brazilian revealed that he has already decided on his first-choice starting XI ahead of the forthcoming campaign, and is confident that those charged with the responsibility of leading the quest for silverware will not disappoint.

"I need to test the players," said Scolari.

Exciting

"I am testing all my players, I only have 11 places available. I need to choose 11 for the game against Portsmouth (on the opening day of the season).

"I need to look at the players and different formations, what position is the best for a player and what position I can use someone in during a game. If they try their best, it is my time to decide.

"I think I have my team for the first game against Portsmouth. I now have my ideas, not just after seeing the players on television. I know more about their personality on and off the field.

"Over the three games I have been able to see the players on the pitch so in the future, in a match situation, I know which player to use. The results are not important, it is match training, I need to look at the players and decide, yes or no.

"But I have the players who can play exciting football and I have the team who can be champions."